Challenging a speeding ticket in court

 Posted on July 31, 2019 in Automobile

Deep down, you know the risks of driving over the speed limit. You are more likely to crash, resulting in injuries. You may have difficulty stopping in time or adjusting to changes in the road. Driving too fast can also result in a speeding ticket.

A speeding ticket may seem like a common thing, and your impulse may the to pay the fine and move on with your life. However, this may not always be the most advantageous choice. Paying the fine means you accept the charges, and that is the same as having a conviction on your record. While you certainly understand the consequences of having a serious crime such as a felony on your record, you should also know that even a traffic ticket can cause trouble for your future.

Questioning the evidence

Most drivers take for granted that police officers are telling the truth when they tell drivers how fast they were going. However, did you ever wonder how the officer knew how fast you were traveling? It is possible that the officer's method of tracking your speed was not reliable, so it is smart to politely ask what method the officer used. If you decide to fight the ticket in court, the accuracy of the device may play an important role in your defense. Other evidence may include:

• Your own dashcam footage
• Data from your GPS app on your smartphone
• Pictures from the scene that show something obscuring the speed limit sign
• Witness accounts from those in the car with you or in the area at the time

If the officer has accused you of driving considerably faster than the posted speed limit, you may be looking at severe penalties, including hundreds in fines and court costs and the risk of license suspension. If you rely on your vehicle for work or other obligations, you may decide that fighting the ticket is in your best interests.

You do not have to fight alone

Gathering evidence for your case may take time, so be certain to carefully read the information on your citation so you know of any deadlines for responding. You should also obtain a copy of the traffic code for the Illinois jurisdiction in which the alleged infraction took place.

However, you may find this process overwhelming and beyond your capabilities. It is not unreasonable to seek legal advice for a speeding ticket, especially since the consequences can be so severe. A skilled defense attorney will answer your questions and guide you in taking the most appropriate steps.